Does Window Film Stop Heat?

Effective heat control is the key to achieving maximum comfortability and productivity in residential and commercial infrastructures. To realize this goal, more facility managers and homeowners are going for window films as a standout heat reduction strategy. While this is interesting, it begs the question - does window film stop heat?

Short answer: a resounding yes. Window films are highly effective in reducing solar heat. But they come in different types, and knowing how they work is crucial. This dictates what results to expect from each type, which is a crucial piece of information you need to arm yourself with so as to get the best outcome for your buildings.

How Different Solar Control Window Films Reduce Heat

1. Reflective Window Films

Reflective window films work by bouncing off a significant portion of the sun’s heat and glare away from your windows. They are coated with a micro-thin layer of metal such as aluminium, silver, or nickel, which acts as the chief reflector of heat from the sun. Additionally, the high reflectivity and mirrored outlook of reflective films provide excellent daytime privacy. This makes them a top option for commercial buildings and homes where heat control and privacy take priority over aesthetics and design. On the downside, though, they can sometimes interfere with telecom signals and WiFi.

2. Spectrally Selective Films

These films are made up of cutting-edge materials engineered to filter out the main sources of heat and harmful radiation from the sun– Ultraviolet and Infrared rays.
Notably, they allow visible light through them, and that’s why they reduce heat without dimming interiors, or adding noticeable color or tint to window glasses. They are ideal for those who desire clear views and natural daylight in their spaces. Spectrally selective films are typically less visible on glass, too. This ensures that the building’s aesthetics are not affected. Solar Screen’s Steel range of window films are prime examples of this type of film.

3. Ceramic Films

Ceramic window films use advanced nano ceramic particles to block solar heat. It’s all done without having any metallic or mirrored finish, too. They maintain window clarity and do not interfere with electronic signals, which makes them suitable for residential and commercial use.

4. Low-Emissivity Films

Low-e window films are designed to reduce heat all year round. They keep interiors cool in the summer whilst trapping indoor heat during the winter. This dual action makes them great for environments with large temperature variances. They have a slightly reflective surface with a subtle tint, so they double as privacy films sometimes.

How to Maximize the Effectiveness of Solar Window Films

The key to maximizing the effect of window films is to understand what influences their performance. This includes but isn’t limited to the following.

1. Type of film. Spectrally selective or ceramic films perform best where windows receive direct sun. Reflective window films are more ideal for spaces needing privacy where network disruption isn’t an issue.
2. Type of glass. Films installed on double-pane glasses are more effective at rejecting and trapping heat than those placed on single-pane glasses.
3. Exposure. South and west-facing windows get a massive dose of direct sunlight. Ceramic or spectrally selective films are ideal there. It is critical to select a film matched to your climate and window needs. Also, install these solar window films on clean glass. Damaged or inefficient glazing reduces performance and longevity. Professional installation also improves the film’s lifespan. Regular cleaning with non-abrasive products does this as well, whilst maintaining its clarity.

Does Window Film Stop Heat Alone? Other Benefits of Window Tints

1. Energy Efficiency. Window films lower a building’s reliance on AC units during summer and retain heat in winter. This lowers your utility bill as well as your carbon footprint.
2. UV Protection. Blocking harmful ultraviolet rays prevents fading furniture and artworks.
3. Glare Reduction. They enhance visual comfort by filtering excess sunlight and reflections without darkening interiors.
4. Privacy and Aesthetics. Reflective window films improve daytime privacy and can also be aesthetically pleasing when placed on commercial buildings. Other types of energy saving window tints add to the beauty of an edifice as well.
5. Cost-Effective To Alternatives. Installing solar window films costs less than new energy-efficient windows even though they deliver similar performances.

Make Your Buildings Cozier And More Comfortable

Thanks to innovation in adhesive film tech, window tints have become very efficient in blocking heat and UV rays from the sun with minimal side effects. They are a constant fixture in most modern constructions, coming in a range of options to suit the needs of building managers, interior decorators, and even homeowners. Solar Screen International are certified experts in this field. They offer a rich range of premium window films, tried and trusted by professional builders to reject heat and glare, whilst providing great value for money. For more insights about heat rejection films and their practical applications, take a look at the blog.